The Office of the TESDA Secretary Francisco Jose Benitez conducted a series of on-site validation activities and stakeholder consultations in Mountain Province from February 17 to 21, 2026. The initiative advances the development of micro-credential training programs in traditional Cordillera crafts for implementation at the Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education (CSITE)

Architect Andrew Peñalosa, of the TESDA Secretary’s Creative Team, led field validation visits in the municipalities of Sabangan, Sagada, and Bontoc. The team conducted documentation and technical assessments of the proposed micro-credential competency standards for Gangsa (Gong) Making, Salibao Making, and Local Pottery-Making.

The activity commenced with a courtesy call at the CSITE Executive Office in Baguio City, followed by field visits and consultations with local government units and community stakeholders in Mountain Province.

In Sabangan, validation sessions for Gangsa (Gong) Making were conducted at the CSITE Mountain Province Campus. Discussions with local officials centered on implementation strategies, sustainability, and economic measures with community engagement mechanisms.

In Sagada, the delegation paid a courtesy call to the Office of the Municipal Mayor and visited local pottery-making sites to observe traditional production processes firsthand. The technical evaluation focused on identifying core competencies and aligning them with structured standards development. The documentation process ensured that the proposed micro-credentials accurately reflect authentic community practices while enhancing product quality, occupational safety, and industry relevance.

In Bontoc, site assessments for the Salibao Making program were conducted at the Municipal Jail in consultation with Municipal Jail Officers. The Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) were identified as target beneficiaries of the proposed livelihood training program, which aims to equip them with practical skills and productive engagement opportunities during their sentence.

The initiative supports the directive of Secretary Benitez to expand programs in the creative industries and promote inclusive, culturally responsive technical education. The micro-credential competency standards under development will serve as the foundation for future training regulations and qualification programs that preserve indigenous craftsmanship while generating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Further exploratory visits were also conducted in Baguio City, including the Weaving Industry at the Easter School Weaving and the wood carving community in Asin, for possible inclusion in future micro-credential training offerings.

Upon approval of the micro-credential competencies, CSITE Mountain Province is envisioned to serve as one of the implementing training centers, delivering structured, standards-based technical education in traditional crafts.

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